How to Treat Blackheads

Blackheads are open comedones and are black because of surface pigment, rather than dirt. Like all forms of acne, they are largely hormone-induced, but the incorrect use of topical products, dietary intake, smoking, and climatic conditions can also play a role in their development.

The black appearance is due to oxidation when the clogged pore is exposed to air. Blackheads commonly appear in areas with a high amount of sebaceous (oil) glands, such as the nose, chin, and forehead.

Treatment tips that can help you treat blackheads

• Cleanse your face twice a day using a cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and impurities that add to blackhead formation.
• Use exfoliating products that contain Salicylic Acid (BHA) or Glycolic Acid (AHA) to help unclog pores and remove dead skin cells, reducing the occurrence of blackheads.
• Use Retinoid creams or serums to facilitate skin cell turnover, prevent clogging, and improve overall skin texture.
• Integrate clay masks into your skincare routine once or twice a week to absorb excess oil and reduce the appearance of blackheads.
• Choose skincare and makeup products labelled as “non-comedogenic” to avoid clogging pores further.
• Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser to support skin hydration without adding to excess oil production.
• Refrain from squeezing or picking at blackheads, as this can exacerbate inflammation and lead to scarring.
• Consider professional treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or extractions performed by a professional to effectively remove blackheads.
• Protect your skin from sun damage with an oil-free broad-spectrum sunscreen that won’t clog your pores and cause more blackheads.

Skincare ingredients that target blackheads

• Salicylic Acid
• Glycolic Acid
• Niacinamide
• Azelaic Acid
• Retinol (Vitamin A)
• Bisabolol
• Tea Tree Oil
• Mandelic Acid

Skincare products that can help with treating blackheads

Cleansers:

Cleansers play a crucial role in managing blackheads by effectively removing excess oil, dirt, and impurities that contribute to clogged pores. Dr Webster recommends:

• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel
• Lamelle Clarity Active Cleanse
• NeoStrata® Mandelic Clarifying Cleanser

Toners:

By incorporating a toner into your skincare routine, you can enhance the overall effectiveness of your blackhead treatment and promote clearer, more refined skin. Dr Webster recommends:

• SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Toner
• Hyaestic Pore Refining 2%

Exfoliators:

Exfoliators are important for treating blackheads because they help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which are key factors in the formation of blackheads. Dr Webster recommends:

• MartiDerm Facial Scrub
• Huxley Sweet Scrub Therapy Mask

Targeted Treatments:

Targeted treatments for blackheads are specifically designed to address the root causes of blackhead formation and provide focused solutions for clearing and preventing them. Dr Webster recommends:

• SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5
• pHformula SPOT ON Blemish Active
• Lamelle Clarity Clear Mask

Moisturisers:

Using a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturiser can help ensure your skin gets the hydration it needs without adding excess oils that could clog pores leading to blackheads.  Dr Webster recommends:

• La Roche-Posay Effaclar K+
• Avène Cleanance Comedomed Concentrate
• MartiDerm Acniover Active Cremigel

Sunscreens:

By applying a broad-spectrum oil-free SPF regularly, you can protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation, which in turn helps maintain overall skin health and prevent further clogging of pores.  Dr Webster recommends:

• Heliocare Gel SPF 50 (Oil-Free)
• Avène SPF 50 Cleanance Cream
• ZO Skin Health Daily Sheer SPF 50